USU Senate-appointed director steps down

July’s University of Sydney Union Board meeting is expected to see the resignation of Senate-appointed Director Simone Whetton, who has been a director of the USU since July 2013. According to USU President Michael Rees a replacement for Whetton is yet to be confirmed. Appointments are traditionally made at the sole discretion of the University…

July’s University of Sydney Union Board meeting is expected to see the resignation of Senate-appointed Director Simone Whetton, who has been a director of the USU since July 2013.

According to USU President Michael Rees a replacement for Whetton is yet to be confirmed. Appointments are traditionally made at the sole discretion of the University Senate, however the board has often played a role in submitting recommendations or shortlists to the Senate for their approval.

While Rees has indicated that the Board will make a short submission to the Senate outlining the skills and attributes they desire in a director, it is currently unclear as to whether the Board will formally recommend a candidate. They would only do so, according to Rees, with consensus from all current USU directors.

However, the input of the Board has no official weight, with the Senate controversially appointed Professor Jill White, the remaining Senate-appointed Director, without student consultation last December.

“Losing Simone represents the loss of a very talented and experienced Director for our Board and we are very keen to find someone capable to replace her,’ Rees said.

Senate-appointed Directors exercise the same powers and responsibilities as the eleven elected student directors. Unlike the other directors, Senate-appointed Directors are traditionally appointed from outside the University, and are not students.

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